Diagnosis

While skin cancer can ultimately only be diagnosed by a doctor, patients can take steps to early detection by self-examination. It is imperative that individuals inspect their skin for changes in moles and lesions that may be precancerous or cancerous. If any abnormalities are present, it is important to seek guidance from your dermatologist as soon as possible.

The diagnosis of skin cancer begins with a full body examination by Dr. Baird. He will examine your skin to identify any unusual moles or growths. If it is suspected that any abnormal growths may be precancerous or cancerous, he will perform a biopsy. There are a couple common types of skin biopsies, which include:

Shave Biopsy- A shave biopsy involves a scalpel shaving off the suspected growth. There are no stitches needed for this type of biopsy.

Excisional Biopsy- An excisional biopsy involves the entire growth and surrounding tissue being removed. Stitches are placed to help close the wound. This technique is used when the growth is suspected to be associated with melanoma.

Following the biopsy, the growth will be examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous. This step is important, as it can help to determine if there are skin cancer cells present, and the severity of the condition so that the best treatment can be provided.

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Regulating Severity

In the case that an individual is diagnosed with skin cancer, additional tests will need to be done to determine the severity. These tests are necessary for your dermatologist or physician to determine which treatment is needed to achieve optimal outcomes.

If you are located in the Farmington Hills area and are concerned about a growth or mole, it is important to undergo a skin examination by a dermatologist to catch any possible skin cancer in the early stages. For more information, visit our blog or contact us today.

David A. Baird, MD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Dr. Baird is a board-certified dermatologist dedicated to providing quality care to each of his patients. He puts an emphasis on patient education, taking the time to answer patient questions and explain procedure practices.